The Senior Library Specialist classification focuses on knowledge and expertise in the area of
library procedures, e.g. cataloging, conservation, circulation. It does not require subject
expertise nor any education beyond the high school diploma.

The Library Operations Associate classification focuses on management and administration of
library units. There are twelve personal attributes needed to undertake job listed. All focus
on library operations and supervisory skills. Again, there is no expectation of subject-based
professional expertise. Nor is any degree beyond the high school diploma required.

The Academic Professional Position Standard #49920 for the Title: Specialist starts off with the
sentences, “Under administrative direction, performs senior staff/professional-level duties that
are devoted to a particular activity or specialized area in an employing unit. Responsibilities
typically require a depth of knowledge, expertise and skills, normally gained through an advanced
course of study in an academic discipline and/or work experience of a variety and depth sufficient
to provide a foundation for expert knowledge and ability in a field.” The specialized body of
knowledge that is expected of an academic professional is the hallmark of the position and is
acquired through appropriate academic degrees.

This description of the academic professional addresses the key distinction between an academic
professional and a faculty member with the phrase: “Under administrative direction.” There is
no expectation of the kind of independent, autonomousrole which Library faculty have in their
fulfillment of theirresponsibilities. Nor is there the opportunity for theacademic
professional to re-define their position. The shapeof the position and the range of
responsibilities aredetermined by the needs of the unit as defined by thesupervisor. Academic
professionals can and do conductresearch, but they do it under the direction and supervisionof
Library faculty.

The Library faculty members function autonomously and independently within their
position. The incumbent has a set of responsibilities, cataloging or reference or
whatever, but beyond those parameters can and must set their own professional goals. Library
faculty play an active role in the way the unit defines and fulfills its mission. This can be
directly through administration, indirectly through committee work, or through independent
developments initiated by the Library faculty member. Another critical function of the
Library faculty is to set academic policy within the Library and to help shape the larger academic
policy on Campus. Library faculty members define their own research agenda and fulfill
it. In addition, Library faculty members engage in service work that benefits the
profession.

The sharp distinctions of these four position classifications may occasionally be blurred a bit
in practice. However, they are real, definable, and sustainable. Careful adherence to
the principles of the positions can provide protection from exploitation while giving opportunities
for staff to meet the needs of the Library in new and innovative ways.